Future of South Africa's iGaming Market: Growth Projections

South Africa's digital gambling sector is rapidly evolving. According to a recent SOFTSWISS report, the nation's gross gambling revenue (GGR) is projected to reach approximately €3.63 billion by the conclusion of 2025. The report, titled "iGaming in South Africa 2025," delves into the expansive potential of the market, highlighting its size, emerging trends, and regulatory complexities. This outlook positions South Africa as one of Africa's most vibrant and dynamic iGaming environments. The dominance of betting within South Africa’s gambling economy is notable, contributing around 60.5% of the total GGR, as revealed by SOFTSWISS. The expansion of the mobile realm marks a significant transformation, with smartphones and tablets now accounting for about 81% of online betting activities. This trend aligns with the increasing ubiquity of smartphones and the rising demand for gaming on the go.

Mobile Betting and Regulatory Dynamics

The proliferation of mobile technology is a key driver of growth within South Africa's digital betting landscape. Operators are increasingly targeting younger, tech-savvy audiences by incorporating gamified experiences that feature social and interactive elements. Such initiatives are designed to enhance player engagement in a competitive digital space. Despite traditional online casinos being prohibited under national laws, operators are creative in their approach. Alternatives like fixed-odds betting games, which replicate many aspects of conventional casino entertainment, have flourished. These are presented as legal sports wagers, allowing users the thrill of casino-like activities within legal boundaries. Navigating South Africa’s intricate regulatory environment poses challenges for operators. The National Gambling Board, along with nine provincial regulators, each enforce unique licensing standards and compliance protocols. This requires a nuanced understanding of provincial legislations for a strategic market entry. Despite these challenges, South Africa's attractive consumer base and evolving digital infrastructure continue to draw both local and international investment.

Strategic Engagement and Market Presence

SOFTSWISS’s commitment to the South African market is underscored by its recent participation in Africa Tech Week in Cape Town, June 2025, marking its increasing engagement within the region. At this platform, SOFTSWISS showcased its innovative technology solutions and highlighted its emphasis on resilience and adaptation in emerging digital markets. The insights drawn from the "iGaming in South Africa 2025" report emphasize the country’s burgeoning appeal as a predominantly mobile-first iGaming hub. With strategic, regulation-savvy approaches and a heightened focus on interactive gaming solutions, South Africa is on the path to becoming a prominent player in the global iGaming industry. Vitali Matsukevich, Chief Commercial Officer at SOFTSWISS, stated, “As part of our ongoing commitment to the dynamic potential of South Africa’s iGaming market, SOFTSWISS continues to build on global expertise and local understanding. These insights will help shape our strategy and ensure our solutions stay aligned with the evolving South African iGaming landscape.” These strategic observations and affiliations reflect South Africa’s poised stance to redefine its position in the international iGaming sector. Source: “SOFTSWISS Report: South Africa’s Gambling Revenue to Hit €3.63 Billion by 2025”, Press Release. Jul 2, 2025. By GamesAndCasino